After speaking with Russ about a month ago, I knew that I needed to do some sort of round-up of real bead medicine. He's been there since the earliest days of bead talk on the net......thebeadsite.com discussion board, the old NationalBeadSociety.com, and then one of the first here on BCN. Russ has always been here for us, with support, sage advise whenever asked, and positive energy just anytime. Not to mention an incredible knowledge base!

And since he is such a community person, I knew this (his, yours and mine) bead community was going to make an incredible medicine necklace together. Thank you, everyone, who could help! I needed to be rather quick about it, so I contacted the folks most available to help, and one month after asking, this amazing necklace is in Russ' hands.

A few dozen of you sent such a diverse selection. Every one so different from the others (like real people), the beauty of that alone is striking. I myself got teary-eyed the first time I laid out beads for position on the necklace. I started this process when about half had arrived. The warmth really vibrated .....when working on this, I thought of every one of you, the significance and meaning in what you sent, your concerns and good wishes for Russ.

Without further pontification tonight, I'll post David's image, and follow up tomorrow night with "labels" for each bead, and a list of everyone's first name.....

Healing wishes, Uncle Russ, we are so glad you have your medicine necklace to encircle you whenever you need it! We love you!